Robert "Captain Bob" Buechler

4/4/1924 - 10/10/2007

Robert George Buechler, 83, passed away Oct. 10, 2007, in Norfolk. Nicknamed Buck, he was born in McKeesport, Pa., was an Eagle Scout, enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1942, was appointed to the U.S. Naval Academy and graduated in its Class of 1948. He served on eight ships, commanding the USS Meeker County, USS Claude V. Ricketts, and USS Sierra, and had shore tours at the Naval War College, BUPERS, NAVSEA, ICAF, and the Naval Safety Center. He retired as a captain after 30 years active duty. He then became executive director of the Oyster Bowl and taught tax preparation for H&R Block.

He was a member of the Norfolk Chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society (Commodore Chorus), Naval Academy Alumni Association, St. Johnís Lodge No. 1 (Newport) AF&AM, Scottish Rite and Khedive Temple Shrine.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 50 years, Betty Lois Buechler and is survived by his son, Chris. A special thanks to neighbors and friends for their outpouring of love. It is greatly appreciated. Thanks to the staff of Lake Taylor Transitional Care Hospital for their kindness and loving care during his final illness.

A celebration of life will be held at 1 p.m. Nov. 8 at Talbot Park Baptist Church, Norfolk. His remains will be inurned at the U.S. Naval Academy, Annapolis, Md. Friends and classmates may contact Chris at the family home for details since a date is not yet set.